A report says Freese stayed at Episcopal for his senior season rather than immediately committing to a full-time academy pathway. He continued balancing school football with ties to the Philadelphia Union before moving on to Harvard.
Knox believes the decision reflected more than football ambition. “Harvard was a family tradition, and it's Harvard. He got there academically without the help of football,” he said.
That choice did not close the door on the professional game. Freese later emerged as New York City FC’s first-choice goalkeeper and earned recognition in the national set-up, showing that development does not always have to follow the most obvious route.
His time at Episcopal also demanded cooperation. The report says Freese shared goalkeeping responsibilities with close friend AJ Marcucci, with both players pushing each other in training and staying behind for extra work.
Freese’s athletic background extended beyond football. After recovering from a leg injury, he returned to track and field, adding speed and coordination to the qualities required of a goalkeeper.
Track coach Zach Richards recalled his immediate comfort over hurdles: “His first rep, he's going over hurdles like he's been doing it for years.”
Freese’s potential debut against Paraguay could carry a personal significance well beyond the stadium. The report says pupils at Episcopal may be able to watch the match together, even though it could coincide with the school’s rescheduled prom.
Whether he plays or waits for his opportunity, the next chapter offers a powerful message: elite football can still be reached through persistence, flexibility and a willingness to trust an unconventional plan.